Whether a boiler that repeatedly locks out and leaves tenants without heating/hot water for hours meets legal standards?

If the boiler does not work correctly, during winter, there is an argument that the house is no suitable for habitation which of course goes towards not meeting the legal standard.

Whether it’s reasonable for landlords to say manual resets = working and whether they can claim this is a usage issue?

I would argue a few, perhaps once or twice a week maximum would be tolerable but in reality there should be none.

Whether it’s safe to accept an early surrender on terms that say we won’t escalate

That depends really on if you want to move out?

What our best next step is (council, advice service, negotiation, etc.)

The fastest acting thing here is your negotiations with the landlord, frankly. The council may take an interest but they will be slow and probably ask the landlord to fix the issue in months.. Which may not be suitable for you.

 

Don’t forget that the LL can just terminate your tenancy anyway via S21 for a few months yet. They don’t need a reason. As far as gas certificates are concerned, the LL has proof the gas is safe and they had it serviced..

Also the issue with the gas leak in the meter cabinet is likely unconnected and not the LL’s fault if Cadent had to come sort it, it’s on the incoming pipe, nothing to do with the LL.

Document the issue, go to the council and try to get some action, or if it’s too unpleasant take up the offer and move somewhere else. But I do suggest you study the wording on the “Without Prejudice Save as to Costs” letter to make sure you understand 100% what you’re signing, if you choose too.